Homebase launches new reward driven shopping site

DIY retailer Homebase has launched a new reward driven shopping site that offers customers deals on specially selected products, with the final price determined by the number of people who sign up to the deal.

Working with social-commerce technology specialist Buyapowa, the retailer has introduced Homebase Co-buy where customers get the opportunity to vote on a range of seasonally relevant products and choose the one they would most like to own. They then benefit from discounts which increase as more people sign up. Homebase said that discounts could be as much as 50% for some products, and the buyer who refers the highest number of people to the deal gets their product for free.

Paul Loft, Homebase managing director, explained: “We are offering customers a new way to shop with us with this innovative approach, as well as showcasing the range and quality of products we offer. Co-buying puts customers at the heart of the shopping experience, and our teams will be watching the products they choose to help inform buying decisions in the future.”

Offers are available for a set time and limited to 20-200 customers per deal. Customers are encouraged to share the deal with family and friends, with options available to share via social media.

Gideon Lask, founder and chief executive of Buyapowa said: “Co-buying is the perfect way to get social audiences shopping. People love systems with a bit of fun to them: a game, a competition, a countdown. We love taking on the system, getting something for nothing and gaining social kudos. These are the human truths that already drive social media. Co-buying taps into these social drivers.

The first deal was offered yesterday when the products on offer for selection by customers included a toolkit, a Karcher Pressure Washer, a Flymo Electric Hedge Trimmer and a Morphy Richards Microwave.

Source: The Retail Bulletin
http://www.theretailbulletin.com/news/homebase_launches_new_reward_driven_shopping_site_06-09-13/